If you want to start summer off with a well-functioning plumbing system, the pros at Roman Electric are here to help! Here are some great summer plumbing tips that will ensure that your pipes and plumbing fixtures don’t cause you any problems.
1. Check for Leaks in These Areas
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, household leaks account for 10,000 gallons of water lost per year. To prevent unnecessary water loss and an increase in your water bill this summer, make sure you check for leaks around your home. Inspect these areas specifically:
- Toilet
The most common reason for a toilet leak is a worn-out flapper. A flapper is a seal in the toilet tank which lifts when you pull the flush lever and allows water to flow into the bowl from the tank. However, if it breaks and develops cracks, water continues to leak through long after you have flushed. This leak can become costly over time—however, its also very easy to fix. Simply find a replacement at your nearest home improvement store and use this guide to install it.
- Faucet
A faucet leak is usually caused by an old gasket or O ring. You can find replacements at a home improvement store and easily install these new components. Make sure you have the manufacturers manual to help you go through the installation and replacement process.
- Showerhead
A loose showerhead can lead to leaks escaping through. Simply tighten the showerhead to the stem and use Teflon tape for extra security.
2. Check Water Pressure
It’s important to ensure you have the right and consistent water pressure throughout your home. There are several ways to check the water pressure. If you are on the city supply, you can request a water pressure reading from your local water department. You can also use a pressure gauge by hooking it up to the outside water spigot. The ideal reading should be between 45-55 psi.
3. Use Water Less
Make a plan with your family to lessen your water consumption, so you can consciously practice efficiency and conservation. These methods might be small but can have an impact in the long run!
- Take shorter showers
- Install low-flow showerheads and faucets
- Turn the sink off when you are brushing your teeth or lathering your hands when washing
- Turn the shower off when lathering
- When washing dishes by hand, don’t let water run for rinsing
- Install aerators in faucets to reduce excess water flow
4. Avoid Clogs
Clogs are messy business and dealing with one can be really frustrating. Here are some measures to prevent drain and toilet clogs:
- No objects except for toilet paper should be flushed down the toilet
- Routinely remove and hair and soap scum from drains. Use a drain hair catcher when showering if you want to be extra careful
- Use a toilet lid if you have small children—this will prevent the risk of foreign objects going into the toilet drain
If you do end up dealing with clogs, here are some steps you can take to clear them out:
- Baking soda and boiling hot water is a great mixture to clear out clogs
- The handy-dandy plunger with an extended flange is ideal for toilets. The cup plunger is best for sink drains.
- Use a plumbing snake or auger for deeper clogs
